Xbox Developer Direct 2026: How to Watch, What to Expect, and the Biggest Games Being Shown

Yash Choudhary
Jan 22
2 min read

Microsoft is starting 2026 with its first big gaming showcase the fourth annual Xbox Developer Direct 2026 happening later today. The event will highlight a small but exciting group of upcoming Xbox games, with developers sharing in-depth gameplay and behind-the-scenes details.

Unlike Xbox’s summer showcases that focus on lots of quick announcements, the Developer Direct is all about going deeper. Fewer games will be shown, but each one will get more time, with longer gameplay footage and clear insights into what players can expect.

What Is Xbox Developer Direct?

Xbox first launched the Developer Direct in January 2023, and it has since become a regular yearly event. The format gives developers the spotlight letting them explain their ideas, show real gameplay, and talk about how their games are being made.

This year’s showcase feels even more important, as it focuses on some of the most highly anticipated Xbox games set to release in 2026.

Games Confirmed for Xbox Developer Direct 2026

Xbox has confirmed three games for today’s Developer Direct, with Playground Games taking center stage.

Forza Horizon 6 will get its first real gameplay reveal, showing new features and a detailed look at its Japan-based open world. A possible May release has also been hinted at, though nothing is official yet.
Fable will finally get a proper gameplay deep dive, including new footage of combat, exploration, and the series’ signature magic and humor.
Beast of Reincarnation a new action RPG from Pokémon studio Game Freak, featuring plant-based combat, protagonist Emma, and her canine companion, Koo.

Could There Be Any Surprises?

Xbox's January showcases are renowned for their surprises. Previously, Developer Direct events have included unexpected announcements and even surprise releases such as Hi-Fi Rush and Ninja Gaiden 2 Black.

Nothing extra has been confirmed for this year, but there’s always a chance Xbox could reveal something new that no one is expecting.

Xbox Developer Direct 2026: Date and Time

The Xbox Developer Direct will be streamed globally at the following times:

US (Pacific): 10am, Thursday, January 22
US (Eastern): 1pm, Thursday, January 22
UK (GMT): 6pm, Thursday, January 22
Japan: 3am, Friday, January 23
Australia: 5am, Friday, January 23

Where to Watch Xbox Developer Direct Live

You can watch the Xbox Developer Direct 2026 live on:

Xbox will also provide alternate streams with audio descriptions and ASL, all airing at the same time.

With extended gameplay for Forza Horizon 6, the first proper deep dive into Fable, and a new look at Beast of Reincarnation, the Xbox Developer Direct 2026 is a must-watch for Xbox fans. Whether you love racing, fantasy RPGs, or new ideas, the showcase promises solid updates on some of Xbox’s biggest upcoming games.